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Lathan R. Exploring unconventional targets in myofibroblast transdifferentiation outside classical TGF- β signaling in renal fibrosis. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1296504. [PMID: 38808357 PMCID: PMC11130449 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1296504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
We propose that the key initiators of renal fibrosis are myofibroblasts which originate from four predominant sources-fibroblasts, pericytes, endothelial cells and macrophages. Increased accumulation of renal interstitial myofibroblasts correlates with an increase in collagen, fibrillar proteins, and fibrosis severity. The canonical TGF-β pathway, signaling via Smad proteins, is the central molecular hub that initiates these cellular transformations. However, directly targeting these classical pathway molecules has proven challenging due their integral roles in metabolic process, and/or non-sustainable effects involving compensatory cross-talk with TGF-β. This review explores recently discovered alternative molecular targets that drive transdifferentiation into myofibroblasts. Discovering targets outside of the classical TGF-β/Smad pathway is crucial for advancing antifibrotic therapies, and strategically targeting the development of myofibroblasts offers a promising approach to control excessive extracellular matrix deposition and impede fibrosis progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashida Lathan
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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2
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Fu G, Wang Z, Hu S. Exercise improves cardiac fibrosis by stimulating the release of endothelial progenitor cell-derived exosomes and upregulating miR-126 expression. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1323329. [PMID: 38798919 PMCID: PMC11119291 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1323329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is an important pathological manifestation of various cardiac diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, and cardiomyopathy, and it is also a key link in heart failure. Previous studies have confirmed that exercise can enhance cardiac function and improve cardiac fibrosis, but the molecular target is still unclear. In this review, we introduce the important role of miR-126 in cardiac protection, and find that it can regulate TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway, inhibit cardiac fibroblasts transdifferentiation, and reduce the production of collagen fibers. Recent studies have shown that exosomes secreted by cells can play a specific role through intercellular communication through the microRNAs carried by exosomes. Cardiac endothelial progenitor cell-derived exosomes (EPC-Exos) carry miR-126, and exercise training can not only enhance the release of exosomes, but also up-regulate the expression of miR-126. Therefore, through derivation and analysis, it is believed that exercise can inhibit TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway by up-regulating the expression of miR-126 in EPC-Exos, thereby weakening the transdifferentiation of cardiac fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. This review summarizes the specific pathways of exercise to improve cardiac fibrosis by regulating exosomes, which provides new ideas for exercise to promote cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genzhuo Fu
- School of Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Siyuan Hu
- School of Sports and Arts, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
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3
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Qiao X, Yin J, Zheng Z, Li L, Feng X. Endothelial cell dynamics in sepsis-induced acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome: pathogenesis and therapeutic implications. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:241. [PMID: 38664775 PMCID: PMC11046830 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01620-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Sepsis, a prevalent critical condition in clinics, continues to be the leading cause of death from infections and a global healthcare issue. Among the organs susceptible to the harmful effects of sepsis, the lungs are notably the most frequently affected. Consequently, patients with sepsis are predisposed to developing acute lung injury (ALI), and in severe cases, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms associated with the onset of ALI/ARDS remain elusive. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the role of endothelial cells (ECs), a cell type integral to lung barrier function, and their interactions with various stromal cells in sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the involvement of endothelial cells and their intricate interplay with immune cells and stromal cells, including pulmonary epithelial cells and fibroblasts, in the pathogenesis of sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS, with particular emphasis placed on discussing the several pivotal pathways implicated in this process. Furthermore, we discuss the potential therapeutic interventions for modulating the functions of endothelial cells, their interactions with immune cells and stromal cells, and relevant pathways associated with ALI/ARDS to present a potential therapeutic strategy for managing sepsis and sepsis-induced ALI/ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Qiao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University& Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Junhao Yin
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University& Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Zhihuan Zheng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University& Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Liangge Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University& Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China
| | - Xiujing Feng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory for Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University& Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250117, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose & Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging, Ministry of Education; Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
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4
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Yang DR, Wang MY, Zhang CL, Wang Y. Endothelial dysfunction in vascular complications of diabetes: a comprehensive review of mechanisms and implications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1359255. [PMID: 38645427 PMCID: PMC11026568 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1359255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic vascular complications are prevalent and severe among diabetic patients, profoundly affecting both their quality of life and long-term prospects. These complications can be classified into macrovascular and microvascular complications. Under the impact of risk factors such as elevated blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol lipids, the vascular endothelium undergoes endothelial dysfunction, characterized by increased inflammation and oxidative stress, decreased NO biosynthesis, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, senescence, and even cell death. These processes will ultimately lead to macrovascular and microvascular diseases, with macrovascular diseases mainly characterized by atherosclerosis (AS) and microvascular diseases mainly characterized by thickening of the basement membrane. It further indicates a primary contributor to the elevated morbidity and mortality observed in individuals with diabetes. In this review, we will delve into the intricate mechanisms that drive endothelial dysfunction during diabetes progression and its associated vascular complications. Furthermore, we will outline various pharmacotherapies targeting diabetic endothelial dysfunction in the hope of accelerating effective therapeutic drug discovery for early control of diabetes and its vascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Rong Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Meng-Yan Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Cheng-Lin Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Mimouni M, Lajoix AD, Desmetz C. Experimental Models to Study Endothelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Myocardial Fibrosis and Cardiovascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:382. [PMID: 38203553 PMCID: PMC10779210 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is a common feature of cardiovascular diseases and targets multiple organs, such as the heart and vessels. Endothelial to mesenchymal transition is a complex, vital process that occurs during embryonic formation and plays a crucial role in cardiac development. It is also a fundamental process implicated in cardiac fibrosis and repair, but also in other organs. Indeed, in numerous cardiovascular diseases, the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition has been shown to be involved in the generation of fibroblasts that are able to produce extracellular matrix proteins such as type I collagen. This massive deposition results in tissue stiffening and organ dysfunction. To advance our understanding of this process for the development of new specific diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, it is essential to develop relevant cellular and animal models of this process. In this review, our aim was to gain an in-depth insight into existing in vitro and in vivo models of endothelial to mesenchymal transition in cardiovascular diseases with a focus on cardiac fibrosis. We discuss important parameters impacting endothelial to mesenchymal transition, and we give perspectives for the development of relevant models to decipher the underlying mechanisms and ultimately find new treatments specific to fibrosis happening in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Mimouni
- Biocommunication in Cardio-Metabolism (BC2M), University of Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - Anne-Dominique Lajoix
- Biocommunication in Cardio-Metabolism (BC2M), University of Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - Caroline Desmetz
- Biocommunication in Cardio-Metabolism (BC2M), University of Montpellier, 34000 Montpellier, France
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Wang E, Chen S, Wang H, Chen T, Chakrabarti S. Non-coding RNA-mediated endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in human diabetic cardiomyopathy, potential regulation by DNA methylation. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2023; 22:303. [PMID: 37924123 PMCID: PMC10625293 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-023-02039-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a major complication of diabetes and a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Endothelial dysfunction is central to DCM, and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a key form of endothelial dysfunction in diabetes. EndMT in DCM has been well-studied in model systems and has been found to be epigenetically regulated by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). However, EndMT in DCM and its associated epigenetic changes need further characterization in human patients. It is also not known if ncRNAs are affected by changes in DNA methylation in DCM. This study aims to confirm in human hearts, the findings from animal and cell studies, and potentially provide novel insight into interactions between DNA methylation and ncRNAs in EndMT in DCM. METHODS AND RESULTS Heart tissues were collected from autopsy patients, fixed in formalin, and embedded in paraffin. Thin sections from paraffin-embedded tissues were used for histology and immunofluorescence analyses, where we confirmed that diabetic patients showed increased cardiac fibrosis that EndMT had occurred. Tissue curls from the paraffin-embedded tissues were used for RT-qPCR and methylation analyses. RT-qPCR quantitatively showed that EndMT occurs in the hearts of diabetics, and that EndMT in human hearts corresponded to changes in key ncRNAs. Methylation analysis showed that some of the EndMT-related ncRNAs were regulated by DNA promoter methylation, while others may be regulated through different epigenetic mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS We show that EndMT is a relevant pathological process in human hearts during DCM, and that its occurrence coincides with changes in relevant ncRNAs. We further find that interplay between DNA methylation and certain ncRNAs involved in the regulation of EndMT may contribute to the observed changes in ncRNA expression. These findings reinforce the role of EndMT in patients afflicted with DCM and underscore the complexities and importance of the interactions between different facets of epigenetic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, Dental Science Building Room 4033, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Shali Chen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, Dental Science Building Room 4033, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Honglin Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, Dental Science Building Room 4033, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Tori Chen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, Dental Science Building Room 4033, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Subrata Chakrabarti
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, Dental Science Building Room 4033, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada.
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Yang X, Cheng K, Wang LY, Jiang JG. The role of endothelial cell in cardiac hypertrophy: Focusing on angiogenesis and intercellular crosstalk. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 163:114799. [PMID: 37121147 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac hypertrophy is characterized by cardiac structural remodeling, fibrosis, microvascular rarefaction, and chronic inflammation. The heart is structurally organized by different cell types, including cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells. These cells highly interact with each other by a number of paracrine or autocrine factors. Cell-cell communication is indispensable for cardiac development, but also plays a vital role in regulating cardiac response to damage. Although cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts are deemed as key regulators of hypertrophic stimulation, other cells, including endothelial cells, also exert important effects on cardiac hypertrophy. More particularly, endothelial cells are the most abundant cells in the heart, which make up the basic structure of blood vessels and are widespread around other cells in the heart, implicating the great and inbuilt advantage of intercellular crosstalk. Cardiac microvascular plexuses are essential for transport of liquids, nutrients, molecules and cells within the heart. Meanwhile, endothelial cell-mediated paracrine signals have multiple positive or negative influences on cardiac hypertrophy. However, a comprehensive discussion of these influences and consequences is required. This review aims to summarize the basic function of endothelial cells in angiogenesis, with an emphasis on angiogenic molecules under hypertrophic conditions. The secondary objective of the research is to fully discuss the key molecules involved in the intercellular crosstalk and the endothelial cell-mediated protective or detrimental effects on other cardiac cells. This review provides a more comprehensive understanding of the overall role of endothelial cells in cardiac hypertrophy and guides the therapeutic approaches and drug development of cardiac hypertrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Yang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Kun Cheng
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430000, China
| | - Lu-Yun Wang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430000, China.
| | - Jian-Gang Jiang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China; Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Mechanisms of Cardiological Disorders, Wuhan 430000, China.
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Wang Y, Chen D, Xie H, Zhou S, Jia M, He X, Guo F, Lai Y, Tang XX. LncRNA GAS5 suppresses TGF-β1-induced transformation of pulmonary pericytes into myofibroblasts by recruiting KDM5B and promoting H3K4me2/3 demethylation of the PDGFRα/β promoter. Mol Med 2023; 29:32. [PMID: 36918759 PMCID: PMC10015786 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00620-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a condition that may cause persistent pulmonary damage. The transformation of pericytes into myofibroblasts has been recognized as a key player during IPF progression. This study aimed to investigate the functions of lncRNA growth arrest-specific transcript 5 (GAS5) in myofibroblast transformation during IPF progression. METHODS We created a mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) via intratracheal administration of bleomycin. Pericytes were challenged with exogenous transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). To determine the expression of target molecules, we employed quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining. The pathological changes in the lungs were evaluated via H&E and Masson staining. Furthermore, the subcellular distribution of GAS5 was examined using FISH. Dual-luciferase reporter assay, ChIP, RNA pull-down, and RIP experiments were conducted to determine the molecular interaction. RESULTS GAS5 expression decreased whereas PDGFRα/β expression increased in the lungs of IPF patients and mice with bleomycin-induced PF. The in vitro overexpression of GAS5 or silencing of PDGFRα/β inhibited the TGF-β1-induced differentiation of pericytes to myofibroblasts, as evidenced by the upregulation of pericyte markers NG2 and desmin as well as downregulation of myofibroblast markers α-SMA and collagen I. Further mechanistic analysis revealed that GAS5 recruited KDM5B to promote H3K4me2/3 demethylation, thereby suppressing PDGFRα/β expression. In addition, KDM5B overexpression inhibited pericyte-myofibroblast transformation and counteracted the promotional effect of GAS5 knockdown on pericyte-myofibroblast transformation. Lung fibrosis in mice was attenuated by GAS5 overexpression but promoted by GAS5 deficiency. CONCLUSION GAS5 represses pericyte-myofibroblast transformation by inhibiting PDGFRα/β expression via KDM5B-mediated H3K4me2/3 demethylation in IPF, identifying GAS5 as an intervention target for IPF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichun Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Diyu Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuhua Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingwang Jia
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobo He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Feifei Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yihuan Lai
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 63 Duobao Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Xiao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, No. 195 Dongfeng West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510150, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China.
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Huang H, Dong J, Jiang J, Yang F, Zheng Y, Wang S, Wang N, Ma J, Hou M, Ding Y, Meng L, Zhuo W, Yang D, Qian W, Chen Q, You G, Qian G, Gu L, Lv H. The role of FOXO4/NFAT2 signaling pathway in dysfunction of human coronary endothelial cells and inflammatory infiltration of vasculitis in Kawasaki disease. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1090056. [PMID: 36700213 PMCID: PMC9869249 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1090056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims The Ca+/NFAT (Nuclear factor of activated T cells) signaling pathway activation is implicated in the pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease (KD); however, we lack detailed information regarding the regulatory network involved in the human coronary endothelial cell dysfunction and cardiovascular lesion development. Herein, we aimed to use mouse and endothelial cell models of KD vasculitis in vivo and in vitro to characterize the regulatory network of NFAT pathway in KD. Methods and Results Among the NFAT gene family, NFAT2 showed the strongest transcriptional activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with KD. Then, NFAT2 overexpression and knockdown experiments in Human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) indicated that NFAT2 overexpression disrupted endothelial cell homeostasis by regulation of adherens junctions, whereas its knockdown protected HCAECs from such dysfunction. Combined analysis using RNA-sequencing and transcription factor (TF) binding site analysis in the NFAT2 promoter region predicted regulation by Forkhead box O4 (FOXO4). Western blotting, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and luciferase assays validated that FOXO4 binds to the promoter and transcriptionally represses NFAT2. Moreover, Foxo4 knockout increased the extent of inflamed vascular tissues in a mouse model of KD vasculitis. Functional experiments showed that inhibition NFAT2 relieved Foxo4 knockout exaggerated vasculitis in vivo. Conclusions Our findings revealed the FOXO4/NFAT2 axis as a vital pathway in the progression of KD that is associated with endothelial cell homeostasis and cardiovascular inflammation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongbiao Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China,Department of Pediatrics, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China,Epigenetics Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Jinfeng Dong
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jiaqi Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fang Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yiming Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shuhui Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Nana Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin Ma
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Hou
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yueyue Ding
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lijun Meng
- Department of Hematology, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Wenyu Zhuo
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Daoping Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiguo Qian
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiaobin Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Guoping You
- Department of Emergency, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fujian Provincial Clinical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Guanghui Qian
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Gu
- Epigenetics Laboratory, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany,Cardiopulmonary Institute (CPI), Bad Nauheim, Germany,*Correspondence: Haitao Lv, ; Lei Gu,
| | - Haitao Lv
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Pediatric Research, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China,*Correspondence: Haitao Lv, ; Lei Gu,
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10
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Wang E, Wang H, Chakrabarti S. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition: An underappreciated mediator of diabetic complications. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1050540. [PMID: 36777351 PMCID: PMC9911675 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1050540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes and its complications represent a great burden on the global healthcare system. Diabetic complications are fundamentally diseases of the vasculature, with endothelial cells being the centerpiece of early hyperglycemia-induced changes. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition is a tightly regulated process that results in endothelial cells losing endothelial characteristics and developing mesenchymal traits. Although endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition has been found to occur within most of the major complications of diabetes, it has not been a major focus of study or a common target in the treatment or prevention of diabetic complications. In this review we summarize the importance of endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in each major diabetic complication, examine specific mechanisms at play, and highlight potential mechanisms to prevent endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in each of the major chronic complications of diabetes.
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Stability of exosomes in the postmortem serum and preliminary study on exosomal miRNA expression profiling in serum from myocardial infarction cadavers. Int J Legal Med 2022; 137:825-834. [PMID: 36416963 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02913-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Exosome-encapsulated miRNAs could potentially be sensitive biomarkers of human diseases. Since a lipid bilayer membrane surrounds exosomes, the exosomal miRNA may stably exist in body fluids with diseases as well as biological fluids. Therefore, exosomal miRNA may be helpful for autopsy diagnosis. Assuming cadaver blood would be most useful, we initially examined serum exosome stability with regard to storage temperatures and periods. Characteristic analyses of the exosome revealed that exosomes and the content, miRNA, were stably preserved until at least three days when stored at below 20 °C. Subsequently, exosomal miRNA expression profiling was performed on the serum of acute myocardial infarction (AMI, 4 cases) autopsy bodies and on hemorrhagic shock bodies used as the control (CT, 3 cases). Results showed that significant twofold up- and downregulations of expression of 18 and 16 miRNAs were detectable in AMI as compared to the CT, respectively. miR-126-3p, which has been reported to be increased in serum of AMI patients and a mouse model, was one of the significantly upregulated miRNAs. Furthermore, dysregulation of exosomal miRNAs, such as miR-145-5p, miR-143-3p, and miR-222-3p, which are involved in cardioprotection, may be associated with AMI pathogenesis. These findings provide a novel perspective on the potential role of exosomal miRNA in determining the cause of death.
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Wang Z, Tong Q, Li T, Qian Y. Nano drugs delivery system: A novel promise for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:906350. [PMID: 36386310 PMCID: PMC9645120 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.906350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common sustained tachyarrhythmias worldwide, and its prevalence is positively correlated with aging. AF not only significantly reduces the quality of life of patients but also causes a series of complications, such as thromboembolism, stroke, and heart failure, increases the average number of hospitalizations of patients, and places a huge economic burden on patients and society. Traditional drug therapy and ablation have unsatisfactory success rates, high recurrence rates, and the risk of serious complications. Surgical treatment is highly traumatic. The nano drug delivery system has unique physical and chemical properties, and in the application of AF treatment, whether it is used to assist in enhancing the ablation effect or for targeted therapy, it provides a safer, more effective and more economical treatment strategy.
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Chen YJ, Hsu CT, Tsai SF, Chen CH. Association between Circulating MicroRNAs (miR-21-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-29b-3p, miR-126-3p and miR-101-3p) and Chronic Allograft Dysfunction in Renal Transplant Recipients. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012253. [PMID: 36293110 PMCID: PMC9603156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic allograft dysfunction (CAD) is a major condition affecting long-term kidney graft survival. Serum microRNA (miRNA) has been reported as a biomarker for various conditions of allograft injuries. The upregulation of miR-21 is the best-known miRNA change in graft tissue, urine and plasma. However, the correlation of plasma miR-21 with the severity of CAD remains unclear. In our study, 40 kidney transplantation recipients with late graft survival for more than 10 years were enrolled. The CAD group (n = 20) had either an eGFR between 15 to 60 mL/min or a biopsy-proved chronic allograft nephropathy or rejection. The control group (n = 20) had an eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min without proteinuria and hematuria for a consecutive 3 months before the study. We performed RNA sequencing to profile the miRNAs expression. There were six differentially expressed miRNAs in the CAD group. Among them, miR-21-5p and miR-101-3p were decreased, and miR-20a-5p was increased. We found that miR-21-5p, miR-20a-5p and miR-101-3p all participated in the TGF-beta pathway. We demonstrated that decreased miR-21-5p and miR-101-3p, and increased miR-20a-5p were the novel CAD-associated miRNAs in the TGF-beta pathway. These findings may pave the way for developing early prediction miRNAs biomarkers for CAD, and possibly developing therapeutic tools in the field of kidney transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jen Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Tien Hsu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Feng Tsai
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 407224, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsu Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, Tunghai University, Taichung 407224, Taiwan
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 651012, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-4-23592525 (ext. 3040)
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Serum microRNAs in Systemic Sclerosis, Associations with Digital Vasculopathy and Lung Involvement. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810731. [PMID: 36142646 PMCID: PMC9503032 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune, rare multisystem chronic disease that is still not well-understood aetiologically and is challenging diagnostically. In the literature, there are ever-increasing assumptions regarding the epigenetic mechanisms involved in SSc development; one of them is circulating microRNAs. Many of them regulate TLR pathways and are significant in autoimmune balance. The aim of this study was to determine profile expression of selected microRNAs in SSc patients, including miR-126, -132, -143, -145, -155, -181a, -29a and -3148, in comparison to healthy controls. Methods: Serum microRNAs were isolated from 45 patients with SSc and 57 healthy donors (HC). Additionally, SSc patients were considered in the aspect of disease subtype, including diffuse systemic sclerosis (dcSSc) and limited systemic sclerosis (lcSSc). Results: miR-3148 was detected neither in the serum of HC nor in SSc patients. All of the rest of the analyzed microRNAs, excluding miR-126, miR-29a and miR-181a, were significantly upregulated in SSc patients in comparison to HC. However, miR-181a has been revealed only in the serum of patients with lcSSc but not dcSSc. Moderate positive correlations between the transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide (TLCO) and miR-126 and miR-145 were observed. A significant correlation has been found between serum miR-143 level and forced vital capacity (FVC). SSc patients with FVC ≤ 70% were characterized by significantly lower levels of miR-143 compared to patients with normal FVC. Additionally, the expression of miR-132 was significantly higher in dcSSc subgroup with detected active lung lesions compared to dcSSc patients with fibrotic lesions. Patients with an early scleroderma pattern of microangiopathy seen on nailfold video-capillaroscopy (NVC) revealed higher expression of miR-155 in serum than those with a late pattern. Conclusions: The expression profile of circulating cell-free miRNAs is significantly changed in the serum of SSc patients compared to healthy individuals. Downregulation of miRNA-181a and overexpression of miR-132, miR-143, miR-145 and miR-155 in serum may be significant in SSc in the context of biomarkers.
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Chen Y, Zou H, Lu H, Xiang H, Chen S. Research progress of endothelial-mesenchymal transition in diabetic kidney disease. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:3313-3322. [PMID: 35560773 PMCID: PMC9189345 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is an important pathological feature of diabetic kidney disease (DKD), manifested as tubular interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, glomerulosclerosis and damage to the normal structure of the kidney. Renal fibrosis can eventually develop into renal failure. A better understanding of renal fibrosis in DKD is needed due to clinical limitations of current anti‐fibrotic drugs in terms of effectiveness, cost‐effectiveness and side effects. Fibrosis is characterized by local excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which is derived from activated myofibroblasts to increase its production or specific tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases to reduce its degradation. In recent years, endothelial‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has gradually integrated into the pathogenesis of fibrosis. In animal models of diabetic kidney disease, it has been found that EndMT is involved in the formation of renal fibrosis and multiple signalling pathways such as TGF‐β signalling pathway, Wnt signalling pathway and non‐coding RNA network participate in the regulation of EndMT during fibrosis. Here, we mainly review EndMT regulation and targeted therapy of renal fibrosis in DKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hang Zou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongwei Lu
- Center for Experimental Medical Research, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Cardiology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong Xiang
- Center for Experimental Medical Research, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shuhua Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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